As a creative person I love all art forms, especially photography. I knew from a very young age I wanted to be part of the process of creating beautiful images. Today, anyone can be a photographer…technology and the iPhone have completely democratized photography.
When I started my travel blog , I purchased my first iPhone and I never looked back. Though I am rather frugal, when it comes to using my iPhone for travel photographs, I buy the best I can afford. Regardless of which model iPhone you’re using, it’s easy to take good travel photos, and it’s fun!
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iPhone Travel Photography is easy
In 2017, Business Insider predicted that people would take 1.2 trillion photos on smartphones. That’s a lot of photos!
The iPhone is easy to use because you simply don’t have all the technology of a DSLR camera to learn. You do need to learn the basics of exposure and focus because, yes, I’ve taken photos with my phone that were out of focus. Either the light was not good or I wasn’t using the camera properly. Once you have mastered that, you can begin to be creative—and even break a few rules.
You do need to make sure your phone is charged, though! With less stress over technology, you are free to enjoy yourself and spend more time creating great photos…not to mention, the iPhone is lightweight compared to a DSLR and doesn’t require extra lenses.
One of my favorite features is the ability to edit your photos on your phone. The app that comes with the phone is fantastic, but you can download others if you wish. Being able to edit on the phone is a huge benefit. There is no need to download an editing program on a computer, as everything is done on the phone. Genius. However, if you prefer more advanced desktop software, editing may include features like how to how to insert a picture into another picture, remove unwanted elements, and even change the backgrounds
Travel Photography Tips
Photo edited with iPhone camera app.
The best camera is the one you have with you. That’s why the iPhone is your best camera choice for travel photography. Whether in your pocket, your purse, or your carry-on bag, do you ever leave home without your phone? I never do.
Take Photos With Intention
It is so easy to just point and shoot when taking photos with your iPhone, but will you get eye-catching photos like that? Not likely. I promise you that if you will slow down and really be attentive to what you’re doing, you will have more fun—and your photos will be exponentially better.
In this article about what to do in Geyserville, California, I used only iPhone images. At the time, I was taking a photography course and the instructor told me to focus. Tell the story. These photos got a thumbs up.
Can you imagine spending time and money traveling to a bucket list destination, taking hundreds of photographs, only to realize you didn’t get one shot that you love? I’m here to help you avoid that!
Taking a lot of photographs is essential to learning, but you want to graduate from mindless photo taking, to intentional as fast as possible.
Can you see the leading line? Painted Desert
How To See a great shot
Slow down. Breathe. Look at what’s in front of you, behind you, above you. Anyone can become a good photographer, technically. It’s the creative part that takes time to develop. Study and practice elements of design and composition. Look for them. In time, you will see them automatically.
Emily took this photo for me in Provence.
What Are You Photographing?
The iPhone camera performs really well outdoors in natural light, so it’s perfect for taking landscape photographs.
Tip: If you’re photographing landscapes, you will probably need a car. Alternatively, you can hire a driver to take you to all the best photography spots. I had a great time in Provence with a local guide and driver. We spent a day stopping at hill towns throughout the Provencal countryside. If your time is limited, I highly recommend an experienced guide or at least a driver.
Photographing Food with an iPhone
I used to carry a small portable light with me to try and create even light in my food photos. With the newer iPhones, you really don’t need another light source unless the location is very dim. Unfortunately, as good as the iPhone is, a key limitation is shooting in dim light. However, if you have good lighting or natural light, you can compose your shots with confidence. Try using the portrait mode when taking photographs of food and drink.
The Takeaway
If there is one thing I want you to take away from this article it’s this: you have the power of creativity in your hands every day–it’s called an iPhone. Have fun and use it with intention. You will never regret it.
Leave a comment and let me know if you shoot with an iPhone. Which model do you have?
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